When white smoke rose above the Sistine Chapel on May 8, 2025, signaling the election of a new pope, history was made. The world met Pope Leo XIV—formerly Robert Francis Prevost—a humble, soft-spoken man from Chicago with a heart shaped by decades of missionary work in Peru. His story isn’t just about titles and tradition—it’s about deep service, quiet reform, and a unique path that led to one of the most influential roles in the world.

Quick Facts

• Full Name: Robert Francis Prevost

• Papal Name: Pope Leo XIV

• Date of Birth: September 14, 1955

• Age: 69 (as of 2025)

• Nationality: American and Peruvian (dual citizenship)

• Place of Birth: Chicago, Illinois, USA

• Religious Order: Order of Saint Augustine (O.S.A.)

• Ordination to Priesthood: 1982

• Languages Spoken: English, Spanish

• Date Elected Pope: May 8, 2025

• Predecessor: Pope Francis

• Notable Roles Before Papacy: Bishop of Chiclayo (Peru), Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops

Early Life and Formation

Born Robert Francis Prevost on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Pope Leo XIV is the first American-born pontiff in the history of the Roman Catholic Church. Raised in a devout Catholic family, he entered the Order of Saint Augustine and was ordained a priest in 1982. He holds advanced degrees in theology and canon law, reflecting his academic rigor and spiritual discipline.

Missionary Work in Latin America

Before rising to prominence within the Vatican, Prevost spent over two decades in Peru as a missionary. He served the marginalized and indigenous populations with a focus on education, pastoral care, and social justice. Fluent in Spanish, he became known for his humility, accessibility, and ability to bridge cultural divides. In 2015, he was appointed Bishop of Chiclayo, where he earned a reputation as a reformer who championed transparency and dialogue.

Rise Within the Vatican

In 2023, Pope Francis appointed Prevost as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, entrusting him with the crucial responsibility of overseeing the appointment of bishops worldwide. This role placed him at the heart of Vatican governance and gave him influence over the global direction of Church leadership. His work was marked by discernment, consultation, and an emphasis on pastoral effectiveness.

Election as Pope Leo XIV

Following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, the College of Cardinals convened in a conclave that concluded swiftly after the fourth ballot. On May 8, 2025, Cardinal Prevost was elected the 267th Pope of the Catholic Church. He chose the name Leo XIV, widely seen as a tribute to Pope Leo XIII, a pontiff known for his advocacy of social justice and workers’ rights.

Vision and Leadership

Pope Leo XIV’s first public address from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica emphasized peace, unity, and gratitude for his predecessor’s legacy. He called on the Church to be a “beacon that illuminates the dark nights of this world,” setting the tone for a papacy grounded in compassion, inclusion, and renewal.

His early remarks and appointments suggest continuity with the reforms of Pope Francis, particularly in areas such as clerical accountability, environmental stewardship, and outreach to the poor. At the same time, his unique pastoral background positions him to bring fresh energy to interfaith dialogue and missionary work in the Global South.

Legacy in the Making

Though his papacy is still in its infancy, Pope Leo XIV is already being celebrated for his humility, cross-cultural experience, and theological depth. His American upbringing, Latin American service, and Roman administrative experience give him a rare combination of global perspectives.

As the first pope from the United States, he embodies the increasing universality of the Church. His election marks a historic moment not only for American Catholics but also for those seeking a spiritual leader capable of uniting a diverse and evolving global faith community.

A New Chapter for the Global Church

Pope Leo XIV enters the papacy at a time of profound change, both within the Church and in the wider world. His life story—rooted in service, education, and bridge-building—offers a compelling vision for a Church that listens, heals, and leads. His leadership promises to be one of steady guidance, bold outreach, and unwavering commitment to the Gospel.